Woomera site opened up for miningJuly 11, 2006AN Australian...

Woomera site opened up for mining
July 11, 2006
AN Australian defence area will be mined for natural resources following an agreement struck with the Federal Government.

The Defence Department today announced mining company Oxiana would be permitted to conduct operations in the Woomera Prohibited Area (WPA), in South Australia's far north, after a deed of access was signed by the two parties.

The agreement, allowing industry access to a defence area for ongoing commercial operations, is the first of its kind in Australia.

"The WPA's primary role is as a test and evaluation range for Air Force capability development," acting Chief of Air Force Air Vice-Marshal John Blackburn said.

"It is an essential asset that is being utilised at an increasing rate each year.

"It also has potential to provide significant economic revenue due to its reserves of natural resources.

"The open and effective communication between Oxiana and the Defence department has ensured that the economic value of land in the Woomera area can be exploited without a negative effect to a significant defence capability."

The department said safety formed a fundamental part of the agreement.

"During preparation for testing items such as weapons or rockets, a determination will be made of risk level for personnel on the ground," the department said.

"As part of the access negotiations, there is a requirement for Oxiana to vacate their mine if requested by Defence for safety reasons."